Swelling After Brow Lift, Eyelid Surgery, Fraxel Laser

Question

I had an open Brow Lift, upper Eyelid Surgery, and Fraxel Laser under my eyes and on my cheeks.  I am super swollen, my eyes two little slits.  I am very depressed and did know I would swell this much.  I look unrecognizable.  How long till swelling goes down?  I am worried my eyes won't look like me--like maybe they will be too hollow or something.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

What you have described can be expected after a brow lift.  I recommend keeping in close contact with your surgeon or his/her clinical team to address your concerns.

Matthew Richardson, MD · Answer

Swelling after brow lifting, eyelid surgery, and laser is normal. This swelling usually starts to resolve within 3-4 days after the procedure, but can sometimes take weeks or months to go away completely. By 1-2 weeks after surgery, most of the swelling should be resolved.Be sure to discuss any post-surgical concerns with your surgeon and his or her team.All the best,

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual for patients to
experience significant facial swelling following combination facial
rejuvenation procedures.  In the
short term this can lead to emotional distress and depression.

The recovery from combination
facial rejuvenation surgery varies from patient to patient. The majority of
patients have recovered significantly in 10-14 days  and are able to resume most of their normal activities.  At this point most of the swelling and
bruising have resolved completely.

The majority of pain is gone in 2
to 3 days following surgery. 
During this period of time, patients are given narcotic pain relievers
and then switched to double strength Tylenol.  Strenuous activities that might raise blood pressure should
be avoided for about 4 to 6 weeks. 
At this time, recovery is complete and patients should be able to resume
normal activaties without restrictions.

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hard to tell the extent of swelling without photos. Also how long post surgery are you. Swelling is normal at first. Our office suggests elevation and ice. Each surgeon is different. Please contact your surgeon and let him/her know.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

With that combination of procedures, it is not surprising that you're experiencing significant swelling, more than either procedure if done by itself. Your swelling will peak at the 2- or 3-day mark. Ice packs (not directly on the skin) can minimize swelling during this time period. In most cases it will progressively decrease rapidly over the next two weeks. If swelling persists after two weeks, consult your surgeon.

	Tips for reducing swelling/bruising:

	
		Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naprosyn and other NSAID's prior to surgery and for a week afterward.
	
		Consider use of Bromelain or Arnica if not allergic.

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like you had a significant amount of work around your eyes and brow area. For most people, swelling peaks at 4-5 days and then starts to resolve after that.  If your swelling is staying much longer than that, you should go see your surgeon to make sure things are healing as they should. They can recommend local care techniques that might help out the healing process.
Good luck.

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear Poco1234, how long is it since your surgery?  
Swellling is a response to injury...... and you have had a few of them!  To help with your recovery there are several 'naturopathic' supplements that can help.  also you may inquire with your doctor about taking a steroid dose pack to help with the acute swelling.  The worst swelling is in the first 3 to 5 days after a procedure and should rapidly improve over the first 4 weeks. 
Make sure that there is nothing wrong- infection, blood collection etc....
With Wam Regards,
Trevor M Born MD

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Poco,
These are questions that you really need to address to your surgeon who will be able to answer them most accurately. 
I hope that you have a speedy recovery and that you are very happy with your results.
Dr. P

William Portuese, MD · Answer

There is a moderate amount of swelling after that combination of surgeries. All three, browlift, eyelid surgery, and Fraxel, create a moderate amount of edema throughout the entire face. It is going to be normal to have some degree of swelling after these three procedures for at least one month from the postoperative period.

Christopher L. Hess, MD · Answer

You had a significant amount of surgery, all in the same area so significant swelling is to be expected. The first few days are the worst but by two week most of the selling should have relaxed. Your surgeon may want to use a dose of steroids if your still swollen after two to three weeks.

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